Ulcer

The strong and highly concentrated acid produced by the stomach is capable of burning a hole in the both the stomach and duodenum (part of your small intestine). The ulcer pain is caused by stomach acid coming into contact with unprotected tissue. Eating generally decreases ulcer pain temporarily because food can neutralize the acid. But as soon as the food begins to be digested, the pain will return. Conventional medical treatment for ulcers has gone through a slow change. A few decades ago, the prescribed response to ulcers was a bland diet, one low in spices and high in dairy type products, that were believed to coat the and protect the stomach. However, it was discovered that spicy foods are innocent and that milk is ulcer forming! The only other choice at that time was to have surgery. Next came antacids containing magnesium and aluminum (like Maalox). However, these type solutions/products were seldom strong enough to allow the ulcer to fully heal. Ulcer treatment took a big step forward with the development of Tagamet (cimetidine) then Zantac (ranitidine) and Pepcid (famotidine), and many more. These drugs dramatically lower the stomach's production of acid. Then a new class of even more potent acid suppressors appeared, such as Prilosec (omeprazole). When stomach acid is suppressed, ulcer pain goes away quickly, and the ulcer heals. For a time, these drugs were regarded as the best answer to ulcers. This early enthusiasm began to fade when it became clear that ulcers frequently returned after the drugs were stopped. In the late 1980s, a new explanation for this problem began to surface. First thought of as a stupid theory; it has now become the accepted explanation. It is now believed that ulcers are caused by the bacteria known as "Helicobacter pyiori". This previously ignored bacterial organism has the ability to infect the stomach and weaken the stomach lining. With proper nutrition and body maintenance this bacteria becomes less of a problem. Stress reduction may also play a role as stress will weaken the body's immune system. (see also Colitis)

Nutrient / Supplement	Helpful notes
Colon cleansing	will cleanse the colon and intestines which can become breeding grounds for bad bacteria as well as collection areas for toxins. A cleansing product should also include the ability to rebuild and create an environment where "good bacteria" can grow. Look for these to be included in the formula: Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus rhanosus, Bifidobacterium longum, and Lactobacillus plantarum. (see BotanaCleanse link below)
Aloe Vera	herb that helps heal the colon and also aides in lowering stress.
Myrrh resin	promotes healing and it works well with frankincense and aloe vera
Shepherd's Purse	herb that works with aloe vera and myrrh
Multi-vitamin Mineral supplement	vitamin B complex, magnesium, calcium, chromium, zinc, vitamin A, vitamin E, and multi enzyme, all serve to help people with ulcers and ulcerative colitis. The nutrients contained in a daily supplement are needed for good general health and well being.
vitamin A	vitamin A is an anti-oxidant protects the mucous membranes that become inflamed with colitis and it also helps in healing.
vitamin E	vitamin E is an anti-oxidant that provides healing and has been shown to help prevent bowel cancer.
vitamin B	vitamin B complex is needed for breakdown of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates as well as good digestion. The B vitamin family is also needed to prevent anemia which ulcer sufferers often have.
Omega Fatty Acids	important for protecting the lining of the colon and anti-inflammation associated with colitis. Essential fatty acids are found in omega fatty acids from fish and plant sources of flax seed, and borage seed
Magnesium	low intake of magnesium has been linked to colitis and a good source of magnesium is a quality multi-vitamin & mineral supplement especially one that also includes calcium, chromium, and zinc.
Calcium	important for proper functioning of the cardiac (heart) muscle and is a companion to magnesium ( see above)
Vitamin C	vitamin C helps boost the immune system and it promotes healing of mucous membranes. It can be taken in a good multi-vitamin and mineral supplement form.